Theology on the Go

In his days Judah will be saved, and Israel will dwell securely. And this is the name by which he will be called: 'The LORD is our righteousness.' – Jeremiah 23:6 Jonathan and James sit down for a one-on-one discussion today to discuss the life and work of Puritan author Obadiah Grew, particularly his classic book, The Lord Our Righteousness. They explore the essential Christian doctrine of Christ as the righteousness of sinners before God, diving into themes of justification, imputed righteousness, and the distinctions between Protestant and Roman Catholic theology. The righteousness that justifies a sinner is not in nor of himself. – Obadiah Grew The grace that God works into our lives by his Spirit uniting us to Christ is the fruit of our justification, not the root of it. – James Dolezal With a focus on the significance of Christ's sinless nature and his role in our redemption, this episode offers a rich exploration of theological truths vital for all believers. Thanks to the generosity of our friends at Reformation Heritage Books, we are pleased to offer to our listeners a couple of copies of Obadiah Grew's The Lord Our Righteousness. Enter here to win.

Jonathan and James sit down with Steven Spinnewebber today, the senior minister of Westminster Presbyterian Church in Jacksonville, Florida, about his new book, Loving the Law: The Law of God in the Life of the Believer. Stephen offers a fresh, engaging exploration of the Ten Commandments and their enduring relevance for Christians today as they convict, restrict, and guide us. You could think of the Ten Commandments sort of like a mold into which every individual Christian is poured and that is how God forms us into the image of Christ, into a greater likeness to our Savior. – Stephen Spinnenweber The conversation examines the significance of the law in a Christian's life, addressing common misconceptions and highlighting the goodness of God's law. The law sends us to the gospel for our justification. The gospel sends us to the law to frame our way of life. – Stephen Spinnenwebber Thanks to the generosity of our friends at Christian Focus Publications, we are pleased to offer to our listeners a couple of copies of Stephen's book, Loving the Law: The Law of God in the Life of the Believer. Enter here to win.

On today’s episode of Theology on the Go, Jonathan and James explore the pivotal Council of Nicaea, held in 325 A.D, when the Nicene Creed was written which has shaped the church for centuries. What were the heretical teachings that led to this significant council, and why was the development of a creed necessary? A good creed will positively state orthodoxy such that a myriad of false teachings are sort of slain in one paragraph. – James Dolezal Tune in as they examine the theological debates surrounding the nature of Christ and the relationship between the Father and the Son. Discover why this council was crucial for the formation of Christian doctrine and how its implications resonate with us today. Thanks to the generosity of our friends at Crossway Books, we are pleased to offer to our listeners a couple of copies of Scott Swain’s book, The Trinity: An Introduction. Enter here to win. Show Notes: If you live in the Sacramento, California area, check out this conference taking place September 19-20 at which James Dolezal and Fred Sanders will be exploring the history and significance of the Nicene Creed in greater detail. https://alliancenet.org/event/scg25/ Nicene Creed I believe in one God, the Father Almighty, Maker of heaven and earth, and of all things visible and invisible. And in one Lord Jesus Christ, the only-begotten Son of God, begotten of the Father before all worlds; God of God, Light of Light, very God of very God; begotten, not made, being of one substance with the Father, by whom all things were made. Who, for us men and for our salvation, came down from heaven, and was incarnate by the Holy Spirit of the virgin Mary, and was made man; and was crucified also for us under Pontius Pilate; He suffered and was buried; and the third day He rose again, according to the Scriptures; and ascended into heaven, and sits on the right hand of the Father; and He shall come again, with glory, to judge the quick and the dead; whose kingdom shall have no end. And I believe in the Holy Ghost, the Lord and Giver of Life; who proceeds from the Father and the Son; who with the Father and the Son together is worshipped and glorified; who spoke by the prophets. And I believe in one holy catholic and apostolic Church. I acknowledge one baptism for the remission of sins; and I look for the resurrection of the dead, and the life of the world to come. Amen.

The Pilgrim's Progress book club continues today as Jonathan, James, and Jeff Stivason continue their exploration of Bunyan's classic work. This week, Christian and Hopeful leave Vanity Fair and encounter a new character on their journey, known as By-Ends. The discussion delves into the complexities of Christian companionship, the challenges of faith, and the nuances of worldly versus spiritual values. A man that takes up religion for the world will throw away religion for the world. – Jeff Stivason Tune in as they explore the significance of these themes and their relevance for believers today! Thanks to the generosity of our friends at Banner Publishing, we are pleased to offer a couple of copies of John Bunyan's classic work, The Pilgrim's Progress, to our listeners. Enter here to win.

In this episode, James and Jonathan engage in a thought-provoking discussion about Puritanism with Steven Yuille, the director of Puritan Publishing at Reformation Heritage Books and a professor of church history. Today, many people consider the Puritans to be a serious, joyless, dutiful group of people. In fact, it has been said that “a Puritan is mortified by the thought that someone, somewhere, is enjoying themselves.” What is Stephen’s response to this caricature? I just encourage people to lay all that aside, forget everything they think they know and have ever heard and all the little quips and sounds bites, here, there and floating everywhere, and just go back and read the Puritans, and recognize that when it comes to their approach to the Christian life, the starting point… is this: Theology is the science of living blessedly forever. It might surprise people to discover that the Puritans end up being the opposite of what they are often perceived to be. – Stephen Yuille Tune in and reconsider your own views as we explore the rise of Puritanism in England, its theological significance, and its implications for personal piety today. Thanks to the generosity of our friends at Reformation Heritage Books, we are pleased to offer a couple of copies of John Owen’s Freedom from Sin’s Dominion to our listeners. Enter here to win. Show Notes: Stephen Yuille recommended the Puritan Treasures for Today for listeners. Specifically, these would be great books to start with. A Perfect Redeemer by William Perkins The Fountain of Life by John Flavel The Blessed and Boundless God by George Swinnock (Stephen’s personal favorite)

Today, Jonathan and James engage in a thought-provoking discussion with Matthew Barrett, a professor of Christian theology and editor of the recently released book On Classical Trinitarianism: Retrieving the Nicene Doctrine of the Triune God. Motivated by the longstanding need to retrieve the classical doctrine of the Trinity, Matthew brought together Protestant, Roman Catholic, and Eastern Orthodox scholars to contribute to this important work. In today’s discussion, they explore the challenges posed by social trinitarianism and its implications for contemporary theology, emphasizing the importance of returning to the Nicene understanding of the Trinity. The Trinity is not “relevant”; it is the foundation of our faith and understanding of God. – Matthew Barrett Matthew shares insights on the historical context, the relevance of classical theism, and the foundational pre-commitments necessary for a robust understanding of the doctrine of the Trinity. Thanks to the generosity of our friends at IVP Academic, we are pleased to offer a copy of On Classical Trinitarianism: Retrieving the Nicene Doctrine of the Triune God to our listeners. Enter here to win.

Wherever the Christian should find truth, understand that wherever he may find it, it is his Lord's. – Saint Augustine In this episode of Theology on the Go, Jonathan and James engage in a thought-provoking discussion about the significance of philosophy for Christians. Delving into the relationship between philosophy and theology, they explore how philosophical inquiry can enhance our understanding of faith, truth, and the world around us. Good philosophy, even if in the hands of a pagan, is actually the ally of the Christian who loves truth and loves divine wisdom. – James Dolezal Discover why cultivating a philosophical mindset is essential for defending the truths of Christianity and how it can enrich your theological journey. Thanks to the generosity of our friends at Reformation Heritage Books, we are pleased to offer two copies of James Dolezal’s book, All That Is In God. Enter here to win.

In this episode, Jonathan, James and regular guest, Jeff Stivason, continue their exploration of John Bunyan's classic, The Pilgrim's Progress, focusing on the pivotal setting of Vanity Fair which represents the world's temptations and worldly pleasures that can distract pilgrims from their spiritual journey. If we don’t look at our wives and our children and the things that make up our life, like our jobs, our calling even, the things that we would put most value in…if we don’t hold all those things with an empty hand and see them as things that are here today and gone tomorrow like the flowers of the field, then we have all of a sudden allowed things to creep into our thinking that have an opportunity to contest God’s authority in our lives, contest God Himself in our lives. – Jeff Stivason Today we discuss the challenges faced by the pilgrims Christian and Faithful, and the deeper meanings behind their experiences. Discover how Bunyan's insights remain relevant today, inviting listeners to reflect on their own journeys as they navigate the temptations of the world. Are we living in Vanity Fair as pilgrims, or are we making it our home? – Jonathan Master

Jonathan and James welcome Ronnie Kurtz, assistant professor of theology at Cedarville University, to discuss his recent book, Light Unapproachable: Divine Incomprehensibility and the Task of Theology. Together, they delve into the concept of divine incomprehensibility—what it means to know God in a world where He remains fundamentally other than us. Divine incomprehensibility is a theological term to describe a feeling that a lot of listeners have probably felt before. – Ronni Kurtz Ronnie shares insights on how this doctrine has shaped theological thought throughout history, reminding us that theologians in all ages have wrestled with what we can and cannot say about God My book is just a long lesson in humility. – Ronni Kurtz Thanks to the generosity of IVP Academic, we are pleased to offer a couple copies of Ronni Kurtz’s book, Light Unapproachable, to our listeners. Enter here to win. Show Notes: Ronni’s book: https://www.ivpress.com/light-unapproachable

When considering the Reformation, men like Martin Luther and John Calvin come readily to mind, but few would put John Knox in the same category. And yet Jacob Tanner, author and pastor of Christ Keystone Church in Middleburg, Pennsylvania, argues that Knox's contributions are as valuable as anything that Luther or Calvin put forth. Jacob sits down with Jonathan and James today to explore the life and teachings of John Knox, which are highlighted in Jacob's new book, Resist Tyrants, Obey God. …John Knox, as the reformer of Scotland, as it were, is one of the most important, I would argue, theologians that the West has ever produced, and a lot of people don't think of him that way. – Jacob Tanner Together, they discuss why Knox remains a pivotal figure in Protestant theology and how his principles of resistance and obedience to God resonate in today's world. Join us for an enlightening conversation about faith, public witness, and the power of prayer. Thanks to the generosity of Founders Press, we are pleased to offer a couple copies of Jacob Tanner’s book, Resist Tyrants, Obey God to our listeners. Enter here to win. Show Notes: To view Jacob Tanner’s books: https://press.founders.org/?s=jacob+tanner

For our light and momentary troubles are achieving for us an eternal glory that far outweighs them all. – 2 Corinthians 4:17 Jonathan and James explore the profound topic of suffering and its essential role in spiritual growth in this episode of Theology on the Go. Drawing from Jonathan's insightful article, "Suffering Matters," published in TableTalk Magazine, the discussion delves into how suffering can lead to greater faith and reliance on God. Suffering is absolutely essential to the Christian life, and it is one of the primary means – biblically speaking – that the Lord uses to cause us to grow. – Jonathan Master With biblical references and personal anecdotes, the hosts unpack the counterintuitive idea that suffering can be a source of joy and strength in the Christian life. Once you recognize that God is charge of everything in your life, and that nothing happens apart from his control, apart from his divine wisdom mapping this all out, and you couple that with confidence in his divine goodness and his fatherly care, then you realize that actually, these things…are designed for my ultimate good. – Jonathan Master Listen as they address the complexities of suffering, how it produces change in us, and how our suffering ultimately points to the suffering of Christ. Show Notes: Jonathan’s article from TableTalk Magazine: https://tabletalkmagazine.com/daily-study/2024/05/suffering-matters/

Jonathan and James sit down with returning guest Chad Van Dixhoorn, a professor of church history and theology at Reformed Theological Seminary, to explore Puritan John Arrowsmith's significant work, Plans for Holy War, one of the most expansive treatments of spiritual warfare ever written. A new English version was recently published by Reformation Heritage Books that presents modern readers with an exceptional guide to spiritual warfare. Having written the introduction and served as its editor, Chad explains why Plans for Holy War is worthy of translation and reintroduction to the church. It's a unique book in the way in which it argues for us to be alert to the fact that all of life is spiritual warfare, and that in that spiritual warfare, which he considers on multiple levels, we are well-equipped… – Chad Van Dixhoorn Tune in to this insightful conversation that dives into Arrowsmith's insights on theological errors, the importance of prayer, and how his narrative approach sets him apart from his contemporaries. Thanks to our friends at Reformation Heritage Books, we are pleased to offer a couple of copies of Plans for Holy War to our listeners. Enter here to win.

Is the new birth still relevant? Join Jonathan and James as they answer this vital question, a central theme in Jonathan's latest book, You Must Be Born Again. They discuss the significance of regeneration, its biblical foundations, and the necessity for spiritual transformation in every believer's life. The new birth or regeneration means a radical transformation promised in the Bible. – Jonathan Master Explore how this doctrine challenges superficial religious practices and highlights the need for a genuine heart change through the Holy Spirit. Cleaning yourself up religiously isn't going to cut it. – James Dolezal Thank you to our friends at P&R Publishing; we are pleased to offer a couple of copies of You Must Be Born Again, written by our very own Jonathan Master. Enter here. Show Notes: You Must Be Born Again https://reformedresources.org/you-must-be-born-again-hardcover/

James and Jonathan sit down with returning guest C.J. Williams, professor of Old Testament at Reformed Theology Seminary in Pittsburgh, PA, to discuss his new book, The Shadow of Christ in the Book of Job. In this accessible, insightful book, C.J. shows that Job's sufferings foreshadow the suffering and exaltation of our Savior, in whom we have a sure hope. Job is a picture of the Gospel where a blameless and upright man is humbled to the point of death and then exalted after that. – C.J. Williams In Job, we find that the hardships of life are a call to humble ourselves, worship, and draw near to the Savior who suffered for us. As we put our trust in him, we discover that the sufferings of this life cannot compare to the glory that God has in store for us. Thank you to our friends at Crown & Covenant, we are pleased to offer a couple copies of The Shadow of Christ in the Book of Job. Enter here. Show Notes: The Shadow of Christ in the Book of Job https://crownandcovenant.com/products/the-shadow-of-christ-in-the-book-of-job-c-c-update

Part 5 of our ongoing book discussion series about the classic work by John Bunyan, The Pilgrim's Progress, is finally here! James, Jonathan, and Jeffrey Stivason, pastor of Grace Reformed Presbyterian Church and a professor at Reformed Presbyterian Theological Seminary, pick up where they left off with Christian coming out of the Valley of the Shadow of Death and meeting his friend, Faithful. Their subsequent conversation covers the profound themes of temptation, discontentment, and shame, subjects that are relatable and applicable to all believers and illuminate the complexities of the Christian journey for each individual. Two things really jump out at me as I read this…Bunyan recognizes that there are differences in the ways in which Christians are tempted, the ways in which therefore they are comforted and find hope, and that's a profound insight… This conversation with Faithful serves such an important purpose because it shows two men, walking the same pilgrim journey, yet in one sense experiencing it very differently. – Jonathan Master Don't miss this enlightening, instructive discussion! For the opportunity to win a copy of The Pilgrim’s Progress, thanks to the generosity of Banner of Truth, enter here. Show Notes: The Pilgrim’s Progress: https://reformedresources.org/the-pilgrims-progress-clothbound/ Pictures from Pilgrim’s Progress: https://reformedresources.org/pictures-from-pilgrims-progress-paperback/ Previous episodes in The Pilgrim’s Progress book series: https://www.podbean.com/ew/pb-xagb6-15a7cd1https://www.podbean.com/ew/pb-yd3a6-15e351chttps://www.podbean.com/ew/pb-etvjk-16d1999https://theologyonthego.podbean.com/e/the-pilgrims-progress-part-4/

Jonathan and James conclude their insightful 3-part series with Pastor David Chanski, delving into Albert Martin's third volume of Pastoral Theology - The Man of God: His Calling and Godly Life. This is the volume that Christ's church needs today because it addresses these matters of worship of God and conduct of life in the church. – David Chanski Volume 3 is a treasure trove for pastors, offering guidance on various aspects of ministry, from worship and church government to counseling and the conduct of weddings and funerals. David shares his experiences and highlights the practical applications of Dr. Martin's teachings, emphasizing the importance of the church of Christ bearing fruit. Join us for a discussion that explores the depth and breadth of pastoral duties from the wisdom of a seasoned pastor. Thanks to the generosity of Trinity Book Service, we are pleased to offer a copy of the 3-volume set, Pastoral Theology - The Man of God: His Calling and Godly Life by Albert Martin to our listeners! Enter here to win. Show Notes: Pastoral Theology – The Man of God: His Calling and Godly Life by Albert Martin https://www.trinitybookservice.com/pastoral-theology-the-man-of-god-three-volume-set/ Trinity Book Service is also pleased to offer our listeners a 10% discount off of Albert Martin’s 3-volume set. Just go to the Trinity Book Service website and enter the code PTAM at checkout for a 10% discount off the regular low price per volume (which results in a net price of 40% off the list price)!

Jonathan and James continue their conversation with David Chanski about Albert Martin's profound three-volume work, Pastoral Theology - The Man of God: His Calling and Godly Life. They discuss Volume 2, which focuses on the essential duties of preaching and teaching, including sermon preparation and delivery, and the importance of simplicity in preaching. I don't want to show people how much I know. I just want to help them to understand what the Bible is saying. – David Chanski The art of delivery is also addressed extensively in Martin's work, and he shares how to overcome common pitfalls in pulpit mannerisms that may be a distraction to members of the congregation. It's like a good friend coming alongside of you, putting his arm around your shoulder, and saying, "Hey, can I make some suggestions on how you present yourself to people in a way that would help that presentation be more effective because it's perhaps less offensive or distracting?"…I like the fact that Pastor Martin risks giving offense here to address some of those issues that often people are thinking them, they're just not saying them. – James Dolezal From the most seasoned preacher to the new pastor just starting out, the issues discussed in this episode and addressed in Volume 2 are invaluable. Thanks to the generosity of Trinity Book Service, we are pleased to offer a copy of the 3-volume set, Pastoral Theology - The Man of God: His Calling and Godly Life by Albert Martin to our listeners! Enter here to win. Show Notes: Pastoral Theology – The Man of God: His Calling and Godly Life by Albert Martin https://www.trinitybookservice.com/pastoral-theology-the-man-of-god-three-volume-set/ Trinity Book Service is also pleased to offer our listeners a 10% discount off of Albert Martin’s 3-volume set. Just go to the Trinity Book Service website and enter the code PTAM at checkout for a 10% discount off the regular low price per volume (which results in a net price of 40% off the list price)!

Jonathan and James are excited about today’s episode, the first in a series discussing Albert Martin’s monumental three-volume work on pastoral theology, aptly titled Pastoral Theology - The Man of God: His Calling and Godly Life. Albert Martin was one of the founding pastors of Trinity Baptist Church in Montville, NJ, where he served for 46 years. During his time there, he taught pastoral theology at the Trinity Ministerial Academy from 1978 to 1998. Many expressed their desire to see these lectures printed, and after years of work, Trinity Pulpit Press is pleased to present the 3-volume series. Jonathan and James are honored to be joined by David Chanski, Pastor Martin’s successor at Trinity Baptist Church and his stepson, to discuss this monumental work. Discover the significance of discerning a true call to ministry, the character, and spiritual formation necessary for a pastor, and the invaluable insights these books provide for both current and aspiring ministers. And be sure to tune in for the next two episodes of this series! A sustained effectiveness in pastoral ministry will generally be realized in direct proportion to the health and vigor of the redeemed humanity of the man of God. – Albert Martin Thanks to the generosity of Trinity Book Service, we are pleased to offer a copy of the 3-volume set, Pastoral Theology - The Man of God: His Calling and Godly Life by Albert Martin to our listeners! Enter here to win. Show Notes: Pastoral Theology – The Man of God: His Calling and Godly Life by Albert Martin https://www.trinitybookservice.com/pastoral-theology-the-man-of-god-three-volume-set/ Trinity Book Service is also graciously offering our listeners a 10% discount off of Albert Martin’s 3-volume set. Just go to the Trinity Book Service website and enter the code PTAM at checkout for a 10% discount off the regular low price per volume (which results in a net savings of 40% off the list price)!

Jonathan and James explore the vital topic of church membership with guest, Jonathan Landry Cruse, pastor and author. Together, they discuss why church membership is not only a biblical principle but also a profound blessing for believers despite its imperfections. The person who is hurt the most by the church is the one who loves her the best, and that's Jesus Christ. And even knowing the failures of his followers and future leaders in the church, he still says to his disciples, says to his believers, says to Christians, that church is the place to be. -- Jonathan Cruse Based on his new book, Church Membership, Jonathan Cruse addresses common objections and highlights the importance of commitment, accountability, and spiritual growth within the church community. I'm not a joiner. But this is the one thing which I've always felt: I must be joined in membership to the local church. This is that one thing where membership is a must and membership matters. I think people are members of all sorts of things right now but that membership has such low-level obligations that it's just easy to transfer that mentality over into the church as well. – James Dolezal For the opportunity to win a copy of Church Membership, thanks to the generosity of P&R Publishing, enter here. Show Notes: Church Membership by Jonathan Landry Cruse https://reformedresources.org/church-membership-hardcover/

"How can I pick the right job?" This question is of utmost concern for many young people. But according to William Boekestein, pastor of Emmanuel Fellowship Church, you don't need to choose a job that's "perfect for you." But you must be faithful and productive in ways that honor God in your work life. Your choices matter. You have real agency, real responsibility to choose wisely. – William Boekestein Today, Jonathan and James sit down with Bill to discuss his insightful new book, Finding My Vocation: A Guide for Young People Seeking a Calling, and the everyday challenges young people face, including apathy, ambivalence, anxiety, and ambition. How can Scripture guide us in understanding God's sovereignty and our responsibility to make wise decisions about our future? God does the calling and the appointing. He has a plan that is good for his children. – William Boekestein This episode offers valuable advice for anyone – young and old alike – grappling with questions of vocation and purpose. For the opportunity to win a copy of Finding My Vocation: A Guide for Young People Seeking a Calling," thanks to the generosity of Reformed Free Publishing, enter here. Show Notes: Finding My Vocation by William Boekestein https://reformedresources.org/finding-my-vocation-a-guide-for-young-people-seeking-a-calling-paperback/